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hypha

biology
Also known as: hyphae, stolon

Quick Summary

A hypha is a fundamental biological structure that forms the main body of a fungus, known as the mycelium. These are long, branching, tubular filaments that grow by extending at their tips. Hyphae can be either continuous or divided into compartments by cross walls called septa.1234

Fungi absorb nutrients directly through their hyphal walls after secreting enzymes to digest organic matter externally. This process is crucial for decomposition and nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Hyphae are also involved in reproduction, either through asexual methods like fragmentation or budding, or as part of sexual reproduction where they fuse to exchange genetic material.567

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